I n t e r n a t i o n a l T e l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n U n i o n

ITU-T L.10
TELECOMMUNICATION (08/2015)
STANDARDIZATION SECTOR
OF ITU

SERIES L: ENVIRONMENT AND ICTS, CLIMATE

CHANGE, E-WASTE, ENERGY EFFICIENCY;
CONSTRUCTION, INSTALLATION AND PROTECTION
OF CABLES AND OTHER ELEMENTS OF OUTSIDE
PLANT

Optical fibre cables for duct and tunnel

application

Recommendation ITU-T L.10

 Recommendation ITU-T L.10

Optical fibre cables for duct and tunnel application

Summary
Recommendation ITU-T L.10 describes characteristics, construction and test methods of optical fibre
cables for duct and tunnel application. First, in order that an optical fibre demonstrates sufficient
performance, characteristics that a cable should possess are described. Then, the method of examining
whether a cable has the required characteristics is described. Required conditions may differ according
to installation environment. Therefore, detailed conditions of experiments need to be agreed upon
between user and supplier on the basis of the environment where a cable is used.

History
Edition Recommendation Approval Study Group Unique ID*
1.0 ITU-T L.10 1988-11-25 11.1002/1000/1414
2.0 ITU-T L.10 2002-12-22 6 11.1002/1000/6134
3.0 ITU-T L.10 2015-08-13 15 11.1002/1000/12532

____________________
* To access the Recommendation, type the URL http://handle.itu.int/ in the address field of your web
browser, followed by the Recommendation's unique ID. For example, http://handle.itu.int/11.1002/1000/11
830-en.

Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015) i

 FOREWORD
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency in the field of
telecommunications, information and communication technologies (ICTs). The ITU Telecommunication
Standardization Sector (ITU-T) is a permanent organ of ITU. ITU-T is responsible for studying technical,
operating and tariff questions and issuing Recommendations on them with a view to standardizing
telecommunications on a worldwide basis.
The World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA), which meets every four years, establishes
the topics for study by the ITU-T study groups which, in turn, produce Recommendations on these topics.
The approval of ITU-T Recommendations is covered by the procedure laid down in WTSA Resolution 1.
In some areas of information technology which fall within ITU-T's purview, the necessary standards are
prepared on a collaborative basis with ISO and IEC.

NOTE
In this Recommendation, the expression "Administration" is used for conciseness to indicate both a
telecommunication administration and a recognized operating agency.
Compliance with this Recommendation is voluntary. However, the Recommendation may contain certain
mandatory provisions (to ensure, e.g., interoperability or applicability) and compliance with the
Recommendation is achieved when all of these mandatory provisions are met. The words "shall" or some other
obligatory language such as "must" and the negative equivalents are used to express requirements. The use of
such words does not suggest that compliance with the Recommendation is required of any party.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

ITU draws attention to the possibility that the practice or implementation of this Recommendation may involve
the use of a claimed Intellectual Property Right. ITU takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or
applicability of claimed Intellectual Property Rights, whether asserted by ITU members or others outside of
the Recommendation development process.
As of the date of approval of this Recommendation, ITU had not received notice of intellectual property,
protected by patents, which may be required to implement this Recommendation. However, implementers are
cautioned that this may not represent the latest information and are therefore strongly urged to consult the TSB
patent database at http://www.itu.int/ITU-T/ipr/.

 ITU 2015
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, by any means whatsoever, without the prior
written permission of ITU.

ii Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015)

 Table of Contents
Page
1 Scope............................................................................................................................. 1
2 References..................................................................................................................... 1
3 Definitions .................................................................................................................... 3
3.1 Terms defined elsewhere ................................................................................ 3
3.2 Terms defined in this Recommendation ......................................................... 3
4 Abbreviations and acronyms ........................................................................................ 3
5 Conventions .................................................................................................................. 3
6 Characteristics of optical fibres and cables .................................................................. 3
6.1 Optical fibre characteristics ............................................................................ 3
6.2 Mechanical characteristics.............................................................................. 4
6.3 Environmental conditions ............................................................................... 4
6.4 Fire safety ....................................................................................................... 6
7 Cable construction ........................................................................................................ 6
7.1 Fibre coatings ................................................................................................. 6
7.2 Cable elements................................................................................................ 7
7.3 Sheath ............................................................................................................. 9
7.4 Armour ........................................................................................................... 9
7.5 Identification of cable ..................................................................................... 10
7.6 Cable sealing .................................................................................................. 10
7.7 Considerations for duct installation ................................................................ 10
8 Test methods ................................................................................................................. 10
8.1 Test methods for cable elements .................................................................... 10
8.2 Test methods for mechanical characteristics of the cable .............................. 11
8.3 Test methods for environmental characteristics ............................................. 12
Bibliography............................................................................................................................. 15

Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015) iii

Recommendation ITU-T L.10

Optical fibre cables for duct and tunnel application

1 Scope
This Recommendation:
– refers to multi-mode graded index and single-mode optical fibre cables to be used for
telecommunication networks in ducts and tunnels;
– deals with mechanical and environmental characteristics of the concerned optical fibre
cables. The optical fibre dimensional and transmission characteristics, together with their test
methods, should comply with one or more of [ITU-T G.651.1], [ITU-T G.652],
[ITU-T G.653], [ITU-T G.654], [ITU-T G.655], [ITU-T G.656] and [ITU-T G.657];
– deals with fundamental considerations related to optical fibre cable from the mechanical and
environmental points of view.

2 References
The following ITU-T Recommendations and other references contain provisions which, through
reference in this text, constitute provisions of this Recommendation. At the time of publication, the
editions indicated were valid. All Recommendations and other references are subject to revision;
users of this Recommendation are therefore encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the
most recent edition of the Recommendations and other references listed below. A list of the currently
valid ITU-T Recommendations is regularly published. The reference to a document within this
Recommendation does not give it, as a stand-alone document, the status of a Recommendation.
[ITU-T G.650.1] Recommendation ITU-T G.650.1 (2010), Definitions and test methods for
linear, deterministic attributes of single-mode fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.650.2] Recommendation ITU-T G.650.2 (2007), Definitions and test methods for
statistical and non-linear related attributes of single-mode fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.650.3] Recommendation ITU-T G.650.3 (2008), Test methods for installed single-
mode optical fibre cable links.
[ITU-T G.651.1] Recommendation ITU-T G.651.1 (2007), Characteristics of a 50/125 µm
multimode graded index optical fibre cable for the optical access network.
[ITU-T G.652] Recommendation ITU-T G.652 (2009), Characteristics of a single-mode
optical fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.653] Recommendation ITU-T G.653 (2010), Characteristics of a dispersion-
shifted single-mode optical fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.654] Recommendation ITU-T G.654 (2012), Characteristics of a cut-off shifted
single-mode optical fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.655] Recommendation ITU-T G.655 (2009), Characteristics of a non-zero
dispersion-shifted single-mode optical fibre and cable.
[ITU-T G.656] Recommendation ITU-T G.656 (2010), Characteristics of a fibre and cable
with non-zero dispersion for wideband optical transport.
[ITU-T G.657] Recommendation ITU-T G.657 (2012), Characteristics of a bending-loss
insensitive single-mode optical fibre and cable for the access network.
[ITU-T K.29] Recommendation ITU-T K.29 (1992), Coordinated protection schemes for
telecommunication cables below ground.

Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015) 1

[ITU-T K.47] Recommendation ITU-T K.47 (2012), Protection of telecommunication
lines against direct lightning flashes.
[ITU-T L.1] Recommendation ITU-T L.1 (1988), Construction, installation and
protection of telecommunication cables in public networks.
[ITU-T L.27] Recommendation ITU-T L.27 (1996), Method for estimating the
concentration of hydrogen in optical fibre cables.
[ITU-T L.46] Recommendation ITU-T L.46 (2000), Protection of telecommunication
cables and plant from biological attack.
[IEC 60331-25] IEC 60331-25 (1999), Tests for electric cables under fire conditions –
Circuit integrity – Part 25: Procedures and requirements – Optical fibre
cables.
[IEC 60332-1-2] IEC 60332-1-2 (2004), Tests on electric and optical fibre cables under fire
conditions – Part 1-2: Test for vertical flame propagation for a single
insulated wire or cable – Procedure for 1 kW pre-mixed flame.
[IEC 60332-3-24] IEC 60332-3-24 (2000), Tests on electric and optical fibre cables under fire
conditions – Part 3-24: Test for vertical flame spread of vertically-mounted
bunched wires or cables – Category C.
[IEC 60754-1] IEC 60754-1 (2011), Test on gases evolved during combustion of materials
from cables – Part 1: Determination of the halogen acid gas content.
[IEC 60754-2] IEC 60754-2 (2011), Test on gases evolved during combustion of materials
from cables – Part 2: Determination of acidity (by pH measurement) and
conductivity.
[IEC 60793-1-1] IEC 60793-1-1 (2008), Optical fibres – Part 1-1: Measurement methods and
test procedures – General and guidance.
[IEC 60793-1-21] IEC 60793-1-21 (2001), Optical fibres – Part 1-21: Measurement methods
and test procedures – Coating geometry.
[IEC 60793-1-32] IEC 60793-1-32 (2010), Optical fibres – Part 1-32: Measurement methods
and test procedures – Coating strippability.
[IEC 60793-2-10] IEC 60793-2-10 (2011), Optical fibres – Part 2-10: Product specifications –
Sectional specification for category A1 multimode fibres.
[IEC 60793-2-50] IEC 60793-2-50 (2012), Optical fibres – Part 2-50: Product specifications –
Sectional specification for class B single-mode fibres.
[IEC 60794-1-1] IEC 60794-1-1(2011), Optical fibre cables – Part 1-1: Generic
specification – General.
[IEC 60794-1-2] IEC 60794-1-2 (2013), Optical fibre cables – Part 1-2: Generic
specification – Cross references table for optical cable test procedures.
[IEC 60794-1-21] IEC 60794-1-21 (2015), Optical fibre cables – Part 1-21: Generic
specification – Basic optical cable test procedures – Mechanical tests
methods.
[IEC 60794-1-22] IEC 60794-1-22 (2012), Optical fibre cables – Part 1-22: Generic
specification – Basic optical cable test procedures – Environmental tests
methods.

2 Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015)

[IEC 60794-1-23] IEC 60794-1-23 (2012), Optical fibre cables – Part 1-23: Generic
specification – Basic optical cable test procedures – Cable element test
methods.
[IEC 60794-3] IEC 60794-3 (2014), Optical fibre cables – Part 3: Outdoor cables –
Sectional specification.
[IEC 60811-202] IEC 60811-202 (2012), Electric and optical fibre cables – Test methods for
non-metallic materials – Part 202: General tests – Measurement of
thickness of non-metallic sheath.
[IEC 60811-203] IEC 60811-203 (2012), Electric and optical fibre cables – Test methods for
non-metallic materials – Part 203: General tests – Measurement of overall
dimensions.
[IEC 61034-1] IEC 61034-1 (2005), Measurement of smoke density of cables burning
under defined conditions – Part 1: Test apparatus.
[IEC 61034-2] IEC 61034-2 (2005), Measurement of smoke density of cables burning
under defined conditions – Part 2: Test procedure and requirements.

3 Definitions

3.1 Terms defined elsewhere

For the purpose of this Recommendation, the definitions given in [ITU-T G.650.1], [ITU-T G.650.2],
[ITU-T G.650.3] and [ITU-T G.651.1] apply.

3.2 Terms defined in this Recommendation

None.

4 Abbreviations and acronyms

This Recommendation uses the following abbreviations and acronyms:
SZ Reverse oscillating stranding

5 Conventions
None.

6 Characteristics of optical fibres and cables

6.1 Optical fibre characteristics

Optical fibres should be used as described in [ITU-T G.651.1], [ITU-T G.652], [ITU-T G.653],
[ITU-T G.654], [ITU-T G.655], [ITU-T G.656] or [ITU-T G.657].
6.1.1 Transmission characteristics
The typical transmission characteristics are described for each optical fibre in its respective
Recommendation. Unless specified otherwise by the users of the Recommendations, those values
apply to the corresponding cabled optical fibre.
6.1.2 Fibre microbending
Severe bending of an optical fibre involving local axial displacement of a few micrometres over short
distances caused by localized lateral forces along its length is called microbending. This may be

Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015) 3

caused by manufacturing and installation strains, and also by dimensional variations of cable
materials due to temperature changes during operation.
Microbending can cause an increase in optical loss. In order to reduce microbending loss, stress
randomly applied to a fibre along its axis should be eliminated during the incorporation of the fibres
into the cable, as well as during and after cable installation.
6.1.3 Fibre macrobending
Macrobending is the resulting curvature of an optical fibre after cable manufacture and installation.
Macrobending can cause an increase in optical loss. The optical loss increases if the bending radius
is too small.
NOTE – [ITU-T G.657] optical fibres are optimized for reduced macrobending loss.

6.2 Mechanical characteristics

6.2.1 Bending
Under the dynamic conditions encountered during installation, the fibre is subjected to strain from
both cable tension and bending. The strength elements in the cable and the installation bend radius
must be selected to limit this combined dynamic strain. Any fibre bend radius remaining after cable
installation shall be large enough to limit the macrobending loss or long-term strain limiting the
lifetime of the fibre.
6.2.2 Tensile strength
Optical fibre cable is subjected to short-term loading during manufacture and installation, and may
be affected by continuous static loading and/or cyclic loading during operation (e.g., temperature
variation). Changes in the tension of the cable due to the variety of factors encountered during the
service life of the cable can cause the differential movement of the cable components. This effect
needs to be considered in the cable design. Excessive cable tensile loading increases the optical loss
and may cause increased residual strain in the fibre if the cable cannot relax. To avoid this, the
maximum tensile strength determined by the cable construction, especially the design of the strength
member, should not be exceeded.
NOTE – Where a cable is subjected to permanent loading during its operational life, the fibre should preferably
not experience additional strain.
6.2.3 Crush and impact
The cable may be subjected to crush and impact both during installation and operational life.
Crush and impact may increase the optical loss (permanently, or for the period of time during the
application of the stress) and excessive stress may lead to fibre fracture.
6.2.4 Torsion
Under dynamic conditions encountered during installation and operation, the cable may be subjected
to torsion, resulting in residual strain of the fibres and/or damage to the sheath. If this is the case, the
design of the cable should allow a specified number of cable twists per unit length without an increase
in fibre loss and/or damage to the sheath.

6.3 Environmental conditions

6.3.1 Hydrogen gas
In the presence of moisture and metallic elements, hydrogen gas may be generated. Hydrogen gas
may diffuse into silica glass and increase optical loss. It is recommended that the hydrogen
concentration in the cable, as a result of its component parts, should be low enough to ensure that the

4 Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015)

long-term effects on the increase of optical loss are acceptable. The method for estimating the
concentration of hydrogen in optical cables is given by [ITU-T L.27].
By using dynamic gas pressurization and hydrogen absorbing materials, and by careful material
selection and construction, the increase in optical loss can be maintained within acceptable limits
during service life.
Further information can be found in [b-IEC TR 62690].
6.3.2 Moisture permeation
When moisture permeates the cable sheath and reaches the cable core, the tensile strength of the fibre
diminishes, and the average time to static failure will be reduced. To ensure a satisfactory lifetime of
the cable, the long-term strain level of the fibre must be limited.
Various materials can be used as barriers to reduce the rate of moisture permeation. A continuous
metallic barrier is effective to prevent moisture permeation; a minimum permeation is achieved by a
sealed longitudinal overlapped metallic foil (glued, thermowelded or welded). In metal-free cables,
filling compounds are effective in preventing longitudinal water propagation, but do not significantly
hinder radial moisture permeation through plastic sheaths.
6.3.3 Water penetration
In the event of damage to the cable sheath or to a splice closure, longitudinal penetration of water in
a cable core or between sheaths can occur. The penetration of water causes an effect similar to that
of moisture. The longitudinal penetration of water should be minimized or, if possible, prevented. In
order to prevent longitudinal water penetration within the cable, techniques such as filling the cable
core completely with a compound or with discrete water blocks or swellable components (e.g., tapes,
roving) are used. In the case of unfilled cables, dry-gas pressurization can be used.
Water in the cable may be frozen and, under some conditions, can cause fibre crushing with a resultant
increase in optical loss and possible fibre breakage.
6.3.4 Lightning
Fibre cables containing metallic elements, such as conventional copper pairs or a metallic sheath are
susceptible to lightning strikes.
To prevent or minimize lightning damage, consideration should be given to [ITU-T K.29] and
[ITU-T K.47].
6.3.5 Biotic damage
The size and deployment of an optical fibre cable makes it vulnerable to many biological attacks.
This topic is covered in [ITU-T L.46].
6.3.6 Vibration
When optical fibre cables are installed on bridges, they will be subject to relatively high amplitude
vibrations of various low frequencies, depending on bridge construction and on the type of traffic
density. Cables should withstand these vibrations without failure or signal degradation. Care should
be exercised, however, in the choice of installation method.
Underground optical fibre cables may be subject to vibrations from traffic, railways, pile-driving and
blasting operations. Here again, cables should be able to withstand vibrations generated by these
activities without degradation.
A well-established surveillance routine will identify the vibration activity, allowing for a careful
choice of route to minimize this type of problem.

Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015) 5

6.3.7 Temperature variations
During their operational lifetime, cables may be subjected to severe temperature variations. In these
conditions, the increase of attenuation of the fibres shall not exceed the specified limits.
Cable elements can potentially have different thermal expansion coefficients that can cause differing
dimensional changes among the cable elements. This can cause attenuation increases of the optical
fibres due to microbending or macrobending effects. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate, in
advance, the operating temperature range of the location where the cable is to be laid, and to choose
a cable design suitable for that environment.
Due to the differing behaviours of cable materials at various temperatures, it is also necessary to
specify the installation temperature range.

6.4 Fire safety

Several large-scale communication failures have been known to occur, because of cables burning in
tunnels.
Therefore, in many countries, optical cables for tunnel installations are required to meet fire
performance requirements. Requirements for fire performance may differ in each country. Optical
cables for tunnels should meet fire safety regulations in each country or in accordance with each
telecommunication carrier. The following IEC standards should be considered if no fire safety
specifications are provided and selected according to the application: [IEC 60331-25],
[IEC 60332-1-2], [IEC 60332-3-24], [IEC 60754-1], [IEC 60754-2], [IEC 61034-1] and
[IEC 61034-2].

7 Cable construction

7.1 Fibre coatings

7.1.1 Primary coating
Silica fibre itself has an intrinsically high strength, but its strength is reduced by surface flaws.
A primary coating must therefore be applied immediately after drawing the fibre to size.
The optical fibre should be proof-tested. In order to guarantee long-term reliability under service
conditions, the proof-test strain may be specified, taking into account the permissible strain and
required lifetime.
In order to prepare the fibre for splicing, it should be possible to remove the primary coating without
damage to the fibre, and without the use of materials or methods considered to be hazardous or
dangerous.
The composition of the primary coating, coloured if required, should be considered in relation to any
requirements of local light-injection and detection equipment used in conjunction with fibre jointing
methods.
Primary-coated fibres shall comply with the relevant optical fibre specifications in [IEC 60793-2-10]
and [IEC 60793-2-50].
NOTE 1 – The optical fibres should be proof tested with a strain equivalent to 1 per cent. For certain
applications, a larger proof-test strain may be necessary.
NOTE 2 – Further study is required to advise on suitable testing methods for local light-injection and detection.
7.1.2 Secondary or buffer coating
The tight secondary coating of the fibre, if used, should comply with the requirements given in
[IEC 60794-3].

6 Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015)

NOTE 1 – When a tight secondary coating is used, it may be difficult to use local light-injection and detection
equipment associated with fibre jointing methods.
NOTE 2 – Mechanical coupling between fibre and cable should be carefully designed. While quite low
coupling may cause fibre movement during the installation process, high coupling may cause high fibre stress
when the cable is bent.
7.1.3 Fibre identification
Fibre should be easily identified by colour/tracer/marker and/or position within the cable core. If a
colouring method is used, the colours should be clearly distinguishable and have good colour
permanence properties, also in the presence of other materials, during the lifetime of the cable.
7.1.4 Removability of coating
The primary and secondary coatings should be easy to remove and should not hinder the splicing, or
fitting of fibre to optical connectors.

7.2 Cable elements

The make-up of the cable core – in particular the number of fibres, their method of protection and
identification, the location of strength members and metallic wires or pairs – if required, should be
clearly defined.
7.2.1 Fibre ribbon
Optical fibre ribbons consist of optical fibres aligned in a row. Optical fibre ribbons are divided into
types, based on the method used to bind the fibres. One example is the edge-bonded type, and another
is the encapsulated type, as shown in Figures 1 and 2 respectively. In the case of the edge-bonded
type, optical fibres are bound by adhesive material located between the optical fibres. When the
encapsulated type is adopted, optical fibres are bound by coating material.
If the flexibility of optical fibre ribbons is required for bending, in conjunction with, for example, a
small cable diameter or ease of handling in closures, the partially bonded configuration in the
longitudinal direction shown in Figure 3 may be optionally adopted for both the edge-bonded and the
encapsulated types.
Optical fibre ribbons shall be capable of mass splicing. The fibres of optical fibre ribbons in the
as-manufactured configuration shall be parallel and not cross. Each ribbon in a cable is identified by
a printed legend or unique colour. Optical fibre ribbons are specified in [IEC 60794-3].

or

L.10(15)_F01

Figure 1 – Cross-section of a typical edge-bonded ribbon

L.10(15)_F02

Figure 2 – Cross-section of a typical encapsulated ribbon

Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015) 7

 Not bonded

Bonded

L.10(15)_F03

Figure 3 – Example of a typical partially bonded ribbon

7.2.2 Slotted core
In order to avoid direct pressure from the outside of the cable on optical fibres, optical fibres and/or
ribbon fibres may be located into slots. Usually, slots are provided in a helical or reverse oscillating
stranding (SZ) method configuration on a cylindrical rod. The slotted core usually contains a strength
member (metallic or non-metallic). The strength member shall adhere tightly to the slotted core in
order to obtain temperature stability and avoid separation when a pulling force is applied during
installation. Water-blocking material may be contained in the slots.
7.2.3 Tube
A tube construction, commonly of polymer materials, is frequently used for protecting and gathering
optical fibres and/or ribbon fibres. Cable designs incorporating loose tubes are the most widely
deployed, offering an optimized package for handling and robustness. They are typically stranded to
minimize strain and enable easier mid-span access if the SZ method is utilized. Central tube designs
may also be used. Water-blocking material may be contained in the tube, if required.
7.2.4 Micro-module
A micro-module is a thin-walled tubing unit (typically smaller than the tube described in
clause 7.2.3). These flexible modules have bending radii similar to the unbundled fibre and are easy
to strip without a tool for easy splice preparation and mid-span access. They have no shape memory
and may be used directly in an enclosure up to the splicing tray. Water-blocking material may be
contained in the micro-module, if required; see Figure 4.

8 Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015)

 Figure 4 – Example of primary coated fibres protected by micro-module
7.2.5 Strength member
The cable should be designed with sufficient strength members to meet installation and service
conditions so that the fibres themselves are not subjected to strain levels in excess of those agreed
upon between customer and supplier. The strength member(s) may be either metallic or non-metallic.
When metallic strength members are used, care should be taken to avoid hydrogen generation effects
(see clause 6.3.1).
7.2.6 Water-blocking materials
Filling a cable with water-blocking material or wrapping the cable core with layers of water-swellable
material are two means of protecting the fibres from water ingress. A water-blocking element (yarns,
tapes, filling compound, water-swelling powder or combinations of materials) may be used. Any
materials used should not be harmful to personnel. The materials in the cable should be compatible
with one another, and in particular should not adversely affect the fibre. These materials should not
hinder splicing and/or connection operations.
7.2.7 Pneumatic resistance
If the cable requires dry air pressurization during operation, the pneumatic resistance should be
specified.
NOTE – It is intended that a cable can be pressurized only if it allows a flux of air which is in accordance with
the criteria defined in Part III of the [b-ITU-T Handbook] (see [ITU-T L.1]).

7.3 Sheath
The cable core shall be covered with a sheath or sheaths suitable for the relevant environmental and
mechanical conditions associated with storage, installation and operation. The sheath may be of a
composite construction and may include strength members. The selection of the sheath material to
optimize the friction forces between the cable sheath and duct should also be considered.
Sheath considerations for optical fibre cables are generally the same as for metallic conductor cables.
Consideration should also be given to the amount of hydrogen generated from a metallic moisture
barrier (see clause 6.3.1).
NOTE – One of the most commonly used sheath materials is polyethylene. There may, however, be some
conditions where it is necessary to use other materials, for example, to limit fire hazards; to protect from
rodents and/or termites, etc.

7.4 Armour
Where additional tensile strength or protection from external damage (e.g., crush, impact, rodents) is
required armouring should be provided.

Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015) 9

Armouring considerations for optical fibre cables are generally the same as for metallic conductor
cables. However, hydrogen generation due to corrosion must be taken into consideration. It should
be noted that the advantages of optical fibre cables, such as lightness and flexibility, will be reduced
when armour is provided.
Armouring for metal-free cables may consist of aramid yarns, glass-fibre-reinforced strands,
strapping tape, etc.

7.5 Identification of cable

It is recommended to provide a visual identification of optical fibre cables: this can be done by visibly
marking the outer sheath. For identifying cables, embossing, sintering, imprinting, hot foil or ink-jet
or laser printing can be used by agreement between user and supplier.

7.6 Cable sealing

It is recommended that an optical fibre cable should be provided with cable end-sealing and protection
during cable delivery and storage, as is common for metallic cables. If splicing components have been
factory installed, they should be adequately protected. Pulling devices can be fitted to the end of the
cable, if required.

7.7 Considerations for duct installation

For installation of duct cables, the filling ratio between duct inner diameter and cable outer diameter
shall be considered for determining the sheath outer diameter.

8 Test methods
It is not intended that all tests shall be carried out; the frequency of testing and the relevant severities
shall be agreed upon between the customer and supplier.

8.1 Test methods for cable elements

8.1.1 Tests applicable to optical fibres
In this clause, optical fibres test methods related to splicing are described. Mechanical and optical
characteristics test methods for optical fibres are described in [ITU-T G.650.1], [ITU-T G.651.1] and
[IEC 60793-1-xx] series.
8.1.1.1 Dimensions
For measuring the primary coating diameter, method [IEC 60793-1-21] shall be used.
For measuring tube, slotted core and other ruggedized elements, methods [IEC 60811-202] and
[IEC 60811-203] shall be used.
8.1.1.2 Coating strippability
For measuring the strippability of primary or secondary fibre coatings, method [IEC 60793-1-32]
shall be used.
8.1.1.3 Compatibility with filling materials
When fibres come into contact with a filling material used for waterproofing, stability of the fibre
coating and the filling material should be examined by tests after accelerated ageing.
The stability of the coating stripping force shall be tested in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-21]
method E5. Dimensional stability and coating transmissivity should be examined by the test method
agreed upon by both user and supplier.

10 Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015)

8.1.2 Tests applicable to tubes
8.1.2.1 Tube kink
For measuring kink characteristics of tubes, [IEC 60794-1-23] method G7 shall be used.
8.1.3 Tests applicable to ribbons
8.1.3.1 Dimensions
For measuring ribbon dimensions, three test methods should be used. The first, called a type test, is
used to assess and verify the ribbon manufacturing process. The type test shall be carried out in
accordance with [IEC 60794-1-23] method G2, the visual measurement method. The two remaining
methods are used only for product inspection after the manufacturing process has been carried out.
These tests are described in [IEC 60794-1-23] method G3, aperture gauge, and [IEC 60794-1-23]
method G4, dial gauge. For inspection purposes, a visual measurement method can also be used.
8.1.3.2 Separability of individual fibres from a ribbon
A separability requirement can be given to a fibre ribbon if agreed upon by user and supplier. When
separability is required, the following should be avoided in order to ensure long-term reliability of
the fibres:
– damage to mechanical characteristics of fibres;
– removal of the colour coding from each fibre.
In reality, it is difficult to completely avoid such phenomena. However, if the user and supplier agree,
[IEC 60794-1-23] method G5 should be used to examine fibre separability. Also, other special test
methods can be used when agreed upon between the user and supplier.

8.2 Test methods for mechanical characteristics of the cable

This clause recommends appropriate tests and test methods for verifying the mechanical
characteristics of optical fibre cables.
For test methods, reference shall be made to [IEC 60794-1-21]. For specifications, reference is made
to appropriate [IEC 60794-3] standards.
8.2.1 Tensile strength
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
Measurements are made to examine the behaviour of the fibre attenuation as a function of the load
on a cable during installation.
The test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-21] method E1.
The amount of mechanical decoupling of the fibre and cable can be determined by measuring the
fibre strain, using optical phase-shift test equipment, together with the cable elongation. See
[IEC 60794-1-21] method E1 for the application of [IEC 60793-1-22] to measure fibre strain in the
cable.
This method may be non-destructive if the tension applied is within the operational values.
8.2.2 Bending
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
The purpose of this test is to determine the ability of optical fibre cables to withstand bending around
a pulley, simulated by a test mandrel.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-21] method E11.

Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015) 11

8.2.3 Bending under tension
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
The purpose of this test is to determine the ability of an optical fibre cable to withstand bending
around rollers or bows during installation, when a specified load is applied.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-21] method E18A.
8.2.4 Crush
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
The appropriate test method for most terrestrial cables is the plate-plate crush method.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-21] method E3A.
8.2.5 Abrasion
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
The purpose of this test is to evaluate the permanence of cable printing.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-21] method E2A.
8.2.6 Torsion
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
The purpose of this test is to evaluate the ability of optical fibre cables to accommodate torsion
associated with normal installation and handling.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-21] method E7.
8.2.7 Impact
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
The purpose of this test is to evaluate the ability of optical fibre cables to survive impacts associated
with normal installation and handling.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-21] method E4.
8.2.8 Kink
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
The purpose of this test is to evaluate the ability of optical fibre cables to undergo normal handling
without kinking.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-21] method E10.
8.2.9 Repeated bending
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
The purpose of this test is to evaluate the ability of optical fibre cables to undergo repeated bending
associated with normal handling and service.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-21] method E6.

8.3 Test methods for environmental characteristics

This clause recommends the appropriate tests and test methods for verifying the environmental
characteristics of optical fibre cables.
For test methods, reference shall be made to [IEC 60794-1-22]. For specifications reference is made
to appropriate [IEC 60794-3] standards.

12 Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015)

8.3.1 Temperature cycling
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
Testing is carried out by temperature cycling to determine the stability of the attenuation of a cable
due to temperature changes, which may occur during operation.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-22] method F1.
8.3.2 Longitudinal water penetration
This test method applies to water-blocked outdoor cables installed under all environmental
conditions.
The intention is to check that all the interstices of a cable are sufficiently filled with a compound or
water blocking material to prevent water penetration within the cable.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-22] method F5B or [IEC 60794-1-22]
method F5C as appropriate to the design.
8.3.3 Moisture barrier
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
This test applies to cables supplied with a longitudinal overlapped metallic foil. The moisture
penetration can be tested according to the test method as described in Part I, Chapter III of
[b-ITU-T Handbook] (see [ITU-T L.1]).
8.3.4 Freezing
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under environmental conditions in which
freezing of the ground surrounding the cable may occur.
The purpose of the external freezing test is to simulate freezing of the medium surrounding a buried
cable, as in wet earth or water. It is not intended to simulate freezing of a cable in a duct or pipe. This
external freezing test is of little use for evaluating outdoor cables, as such cables rarely fail this test.
The aggregate of other requirements for outdoor cables results in a cable that is sufficiently robust to
easily withstand this test. It may however be useful for evaluating cables that are not normally
intended for outdoor installation. Users are encouraged to refer to national standards in effect in
applicable regions.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-22] method F15.
8.3.5 Hydrogen
This test method only applies to optical fibre cable installed in a submarine environment or in higher
atmospheric pressure applications.
In the case of a metal-free cable or one employing a moisture barrier sheath with a selection of cable
components which are low in the generation of hydrogen, either by themselves or in combination
with others (for example, water), the build-up of hydrogen gas within the cable core will not lead to
a significant increase in optical loss.
For other cable constructions, [ITU-T L.27] should be consulted.
8.3.6 Nuclear radiation
This test method assesses the suitability of optical fibre cables to be exposed to nuclear radiation.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-22] method F7.
8.3.7 Vibration
This subject needs further study.

Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015) 13

8.3.8 Ageing
This test method applies to optical fibre cables installed under all environmental conditions.
The purpose of this test is to evaluate the reaction of cable components under simulated ageing by
applying a high temperature to accelerate ageing.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-22] method F9.
8.3.9 Pneumatic resistance
If a gas pressurization system is used to protect non-waterproofed optical fibre cables, this test may
be appropriate.
The purpose of this test is to assure that an adequate amount of gas flow will pass through the cable.
This test shall be carried out in accordance with [IEC 60794-1-22] method F8.
8.3.10 Lightning
Optionally, when a metallic material is used as a cable element, the lightning protection of a cable
may undergo a test described in [ITU-T K.47], subject to agreement between the user and supplier.

14 Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015)

 Bibliography

[b-ITU-T L.26] Recommendation ITU-T L.26 (2015), Optical fibre cables for aerial
application.
[b-ITU-T L.43] Recommendation ITU-T L.43 (2015), Optical fibre cables for buried
application.
[b-ITU-T Handbook] ITU-T Handbook (2009), Optical fibres, cables and systems.
[b-IEC 60793-2] IEC 60793-2 (2011), Optical fibres – Part 2: Product specifications –
General.
[b-IEC 60794-3-10] IEC 60794-3-10 (2009), Optical fibre cables – Part 3-10: Outdoor cables –
Family specification for duct, directly buried and lashed aerial optical
telecommunication cables.
[b-IEC 60794-3-11] IEC 60794-3-11 (2010), Optical fibre cables – Part 3-11: Outdoor cables –
Product specification for duct, directly buried, and lashed aerial single-
mode optical fibre telecommunication cables.
[b-IEC 60794-3-12] IEC 60794-3-12 (2012), Optical fibre cables – Part 3-12: Outdoor cables –
Detailed specification for duct and directly buried optical
telecommunication cables for use in premises cabling.
[b-IEC TR 62690] IEC TR 62690 (2014), Hydrogen effects in optical fibre cables – Guidelines.

Rec. ITU-T L.10 (08/2015) 15

 SERIES OF ITU-T RECOMMENDATIONS

Series A Organization of the work of ITU-T

Series D General tariff principles

Series E Overall network operation, telephone service, service operation and human factors
Series F Non-telephone telecommunication services
Series G Transmission systems and media, digital systems and networks

Series H Audiovisual and multimedia systems

Series I Integrated services digital network
Series J Cable networks and transmission of television, sound programme and other multimedia
signals

Series K Protection against interference

Series L Environment and ICTs, climate change, e-waste, energy efficiency; construction,
installation and protection of cables and other elements of outside plant
Series M Telecommunication management, including TMN and network maintenance
Series N Maintenance: international sound programme and television transmission circuits

Series O Specifications of measuring equipment

Series P Terminals and subjective and objective assessment methods
Series Q Switching and signalling
Series R Telegraph transmission

Series S Telegraph services terminal equipment

Series T Terminals for telematic services
Series U Telegraph switching

Series V Data communication over the telephone network

Series X Data networks, open system communications and security

Series Y Global information infrastructure, Internet protocol aspects and next-generation networks
Series Z Languages and general software aspects for telecommunication systems

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Geneva, 2015